It’s well known that swimming is an excellent way to improve your physical health.

As a great full-body workout that offers all the benefits of both cardio and strength training, it’s been proven to lower the risk of chronic illness whist helping you stay in shape.

But did you know that swimming is just as good for your mind as it is your body?

Mental health can be affected by many factors. Work stress, exam pressure, financial struggles, bereavement or relationship breakdowns can all take their toll, leading to anxiety and/or depression.

And it’s not just big life events that can have an impact. At this time of year, with the light levels starting to decrease, many people report experiencing symptoms of SAD – seasonal effective disorder – which include persistent low mood and lethargy.

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When mental health is adversely affected, life can become difficult to cope with. It can have a huge impact on our ability to function, both physically and socially, which is why taking steps to safeguard our mental health is vital.

When mental health is adversely affected, life can become difficult to cope with

"Any type of exercise is useful, as long as it suits you and you do enough of it," says Dr Alan Cohen , a GP with a special interest in mental health. "Exercise should be something you enjoy; otherwise, it will be hard to find the motivation to do it regularly."

Why is exercise so helpful?

Exercise releases endorphins, which can trigger positive feelings in the body and are a natural analgesic or pain reliever. It can also reduce stress, help you sleep better, and boost overall self-esteem.

The benefits of swimming on mental health – findings from Swim England

Any kind of physical activity can have a positive effect on mental health and wellbeing, but swimming is particularly effective, according to a major report by Swim England.

Swimming for just half an hour three times a week can lower stress levels, raise mood, lower incidences of depression and anxiety and improve sleep patterns.

Not only that, but swimming can be a social activity which can increase self-confidence. By attending your local leisure centre regularly, you’re likely to start bumping into familiar faces and forming new friendships. Swim England found that children who take part in swimming lessons regularly cognitive and social skills quicker than those who do not.

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Swim England CEO Jane Nickerson said: “It is evident from the report that swimming has enormous potential to support the health and wellbeing of the nation.

“The report particularly highlights the benefits of swimming and aquatic activities for people with mental health concerns.”

Robert, who lives with Bi-Polar and Korsakoffs, is one of the many people experiencing the positive impact of swimming. His story is features as part of Swim England’s report.

"I used to feel trapped and depressed about my conditions – but going swimming with others with the same problems has made me feel good about myself,” he said.

"Swimming was a new outlet from my illnesses. My self-worth has improved and my confidence has improved.

"It's just a simple swim – but it has changed my life."

October 10 marks World Mental Health Day, an opportunity for all stakeholders working on mental health issues to talk about their work, and what more needs to be done to make mental health care a reality for people worldwide.

There are many ways you can get involved, helping to raise money and awareness and change lives. For more information, visit https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/get-involved

Make a Splash campaign

The Western Gazette has joined forces with LED Leisure to raise awareness of the importance and benefits of swimming.

Not only is swimming great exercise, it is also a vital life skill. LED Leisure, which runs leisure centres owned by South Somerset District Council, is on a mission to ensure get young people swimming as part of its Make a Splash campaign.

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Tarida Mitcham, area manager (south Somerset) for LED, said: “Make a Splash is designed to encourage more people to swim more often and make the most of their time in the pool but above all to highlight the additional health benefits that water activities provide.

“The range of our sessions are created to cater for all levels of ability from dipping your toe in to motivating you to swim faster or splashing around with your family, all in a fun social environment developed specifically for your needs.”

Western Gazette editor Emma Slee said: “We are delighted to join with LED Leisure to promote a brilliant way to keep fit, have fun with the family and learn a skill which could save your life.”

LED offers 25 metre swimming pools at five of its leisure centres at Exmouth, Yeovil, Wincanton, Honiton, Sidmouth, and a lovely pool situated within the Primary School in Seaton.

The pools are open from early in the morning until late at night, so you can get in the water whenever you want to. There is a comprehensive programme of lessons for both adults and children, as well as AquaZumba, Aqua Fit, and health classes.

As part of its commitment to get children swimming from the outset, little ones aged under three can come along to a public swimming session free of charge. In addition, there is a fantastic swimming lesson programme that will take your child as far as they want to swim.

Courses, club programmes and exercise classes may impact on your time in the pool so make sure you check the timetables or call your local centre before you pack your goggles.